Turmel, who was named Jack Layton’s replacement last week as he fights cancer, was a member of the Bloc Québécois for more than four years before turning in her membership card in January.

She also confirmed she was a member of the provincial sovereigntist group Quebec solidaire.

Rae said Thursday that while switching political stripes isn’t a new phenomenon, issues arise when politicians aren’t clear with the public.

“We don’t want a party that’s flaky on the future of Canada, and I think that the news that Ms. Turmel was a member of Bloc Québécois and Quebec solidaire makes people wonder about just what is the direction and what is the focus of the New Democratic Party,” said Rae.

“Why didn’t Ms. Turmel tell people that she’d been a member of the Bloc and that she still had a membership in Quebec solidaire, why didn’t she make that clear, instead of attacking the people who suggested that she might have some other cards or some other memberships.

“Then when the truth comes out she comes up with a story that says, ‘well, I did it for a friend,’ which is kind of a bizarre reason to spend five years as a member of the Bloc Québécois.”

A delayed flight caused the Toronto MP and Ontario’s former NDP premier to miss a children’s puppet show during his Cape Breton trip.

But Rae didn’t miss a one-man protest outside the building.

Sydney resident Aaron Doncaster carried a sign chastising Rae for being a turncoat. The protester also challenged some of the political decisions made by the federal Liberals.

“If Canadians remember back when he was an NDPer, back in Ontario, they will realize that he spoke from one side of his mouth back then and now today he’s speaking from another point,” said Doncaster.

“Basically, I believe Bob Rae’s just an opportunistic turncoat like most, many, many politicians out there. They’re just thinking ‘power.’ Really when it comes down to it, the people get cheated.”

After a brief discussion with Doncaster, Rae headed inside to speak to reporters.